SKU: 25209484148
prickly pear cactus native range

prickly pear cactus native range Eastern Prickly Pear – UJAMAA SEEDS

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Description

prickly pear cactus native range Eastern Prickly Pear – UJAMAA SEEDSOpuntia humifusa BOTANICAL SAMPLE Approximately 15 seeds per packet Origins and HistoryEastern Prickly Pear (Opuntia humifusa), also known as Devils Tongue or Low Prickly Pear, is a native heirloom cactus species of North America, with a range extending from the eastern United States into parts of Canada and Mexico. It has long held cultural and practical value among Indigenous communities, particularly for its edible fruits and pads, medicinal

Opuntia humifusa

BOTANICAL SAMPLE

Approximately 15 seeds per packet

Origins and History
Eastern Prickly Pear (Opuntia humifusa), also known as Devil’s Tongue or Low Prickly Pear, is a native heirloom cactus species of North America, with a range extending from the eastern United States into parts of Canada and Mexico. It has long held cultural and practical value among Indigenous communities, particularly for its edible fruits and pads, medicinal properties, and drought tolerance. As one of the hardiest prickly pear species, it has adapted over centuries to survive in varied climates, including temperate regions far from the desert Southwest typically associated with cacti.

Appearance and Characteristics
This low-growing, spreading cactus forms mats of flattened, oval-shaped pads that are light green and covered in clusters of small spines called glochids, as well as occasional larger spines. In late spring to early summer, the plant produces striking yellow flowers with red-tinged bases, which attract pollinators such as bees. These are followed by reddish-purple fruits (commonly called "tunas") that ripen by late summer. The plant thrives in sandy, well-drained soils and is a champion of xeriscaping due to its drought resistance.

Culinary Uses
Both the pads (called nopales) and the fruits of Opuntia humifusa are edible. Young pads, harvested when tender, are de-spined and cooked into savory dishes such as stews, tacos, and egg scrambles, often praised for their tart, slightly citrusy flavor and crisp texture. The ripe fruits are sweet and juicy, used in jellies, syrups, beverages, and even desserts. Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, the Eastern Prickly Pear has gained attention for its nutritional and medicinal potential.

Days to Maturity
From pad emergence to fruit ripening, the growing cycle varies depending on local conditions but typically spans 90 to 120 days. Flowers generally appear in late May or June, and fruits are ready to harvest by late August through September.

USDA Zones and Growing Tips
Eastern Prickly Pear is exceptionally cold-hardy, thriving in USDA Zones 4 through 9. It prefers full sun and well-drained sandy or rocky soils and can tolerate drought once established. Avoid overwatering, especially in cooler climates where wet soil can lead to rot. It can be propagated easily from pads: simply let a harvested pad callous over for a few days before planting in soil. This heirloom cactus is ideal for container gardening, rock gardens, or naturalized settings in arid or temperate regions.

Harvesting Guidance
Harvest young pads in spring when they are about 4–6 inches long and still tender, wearing gloves to avoid the spines. Use a knife to slice at the joint where the pad connects. For fruit, wait until late summer when the tunas turn a deep purple-red. Twist or cut them from the plant, then use tongs or gloves to remove the glochids by scrubbing, torching, or peeling before consumption. Always handle with care, and harvest sparingly to allow the plant to continue thriving.

REFRIGERATED SEED

This seed has been stored under refrigeration until shipped. Keep in refrigerator (33-38 degrees F) until planting or starting pre-germination seed treatment.

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SKU: 25209484148

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Niddy
Phoenix, US
★★★★★ 4
Not recommended at all for heavy chewers
Size: Large (5" x 3.25" x 9"), Size: Large (5" x 3.25" x 9")
They advertise this toy as a heavy chewer toy and it’s not. My big dog chewed through it in a couple days and that’s with me yelling at him to chew it gently. I like the toy and it’s great for smaller less advid chewers. I put kibble in the holes and watch my Shiba go to town throwing it around but my mixed lab/dane has a nub of rubber left. So maybe don’t advertise it as a heavy chewer toy. The rubber is way too soft for you to be suggesting that. It did come with a strong chemical smell that my dogs didn’t like and I had to wash it 3x before they’d touch it.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 5, 2024
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Renee
Alexandria, US
★★★★★ 5
Great value, durable, enriching
Size: Large (5" x 3.25" x 9")
$5 for the large size for our 15lb chiweenie mix was PERFECT. Her emotional support chew toy got destroyed and I wanted something I felt safe leaving in her kennel while I was out. She anxiously chews. Bought this to try out and she took a bit to get into it, but now she loves it. Probably could’ve gone with a smaller size, but oh well. We put treats inside and smear peanut butter or wet food on the dumbbell like ends for enrichment. So far has held up over 3 weeks.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 7, 2026
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Ann
Phoenix, US
★★★★★ 5
A good choice
Size: Large (5" x 3.25" x 9")
Initially I put this toy in my save-for-later on Amazon. As I was perusing through one morning I noticed that it had been reduced so, I ordered it. It arrived promptly, was well packaged, and has been a good addition to my Doberman's toy box. It has not been chosen as the ultimate favorite, but he likes enough to select it, carry it around, and chew on it. To us there is no unpleasant odor. It is good solid rubber and despite all of his chewing maneuvers, there are not holes, marks, or bits of the ball where they should not be. He carries the toy in his mouth in the middle of the toy, but likes to lie on the floor, hold one ball end in his paws and chew on the other. Overall, I would give this a grade of a good, solid, reliable dog toy. I cannot address suction power, because I am not sure what is meant by that in a toy that is shaped like an old fashioned dumb bell. Top 3 Likes: -Durable rubber chew toy for large dog that is easily carried -Bright color making it easily visible -No offensive odors Top 3 Dislikes: -Serviceable toy, not a favorite -Could be chewed into little pieces by a very aggressive chewer (mine is not) -Poor at dispensing treats; they fall right out with no challenge
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Reviewed in the United States on June 16, 2024
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Tam
Fort Morgan, US
★★★★★ 3
Works good for my medium dog
Size: Large (5" x 3.25" x 9")
As expected. Good for medium chewers but not heavy chewers.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2026
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kristen
Los Angeles, US
★★★★★ 5
Wish I could give more stars after 8 months 🙌🏼
Size: Large (5" x 3.25" x 9")
I purchased this in June and I've come back in January to leave a review. This was the first toy I bought my dog I had it delivered while she was still in the shelter and it has lasted longer than any other toy. Not only can she not destroy it when she's actively trying but she still loves it she plays with it all the time I don't even need to put treats in it she just enjoys the texture. This toy was such a win. I have wasted so much money since then on other toys that say their indestructible and turn up in pieces. I wish I could give it more stars
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Reviewed in the United States on January 25, 2026

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